The Valley Through the Seasons

Every season has its own charm

Spring is also the busiest time of year in the Ricote and La Navela mountain ranges: birds of prey are in the midst of their breeding season, the Mediterranean vegetation is in bloom, and the trails offer the best conditions for observing wildlife and flora.

The Sierra de Ricote and La Navela is a limestone mountain range located in the Ricote Valley area, in the center of the Region of Murcia. It is a mid-mountain landscape characterized by rugged terrain, deep ravines, and steep slopes. In the lower areas and on the foothills of the range, traditional terraced orchards can be found, especially in the municipality of Ricote, where citrus and other fruit trees characteristic of the valley are grown. The contrast between the mountainous areas and the traditional agricultural landscape makes this area a site of great scenic, ecological, and cultural interest.

In summer, within the Natura 2000 network, it’s best to explore the area in the early hours: at dawn, the mountain ranges come alive in a way that the midday heat hides. Birds of prey are more visible, and the silence makes it more likely to encounter the area’s wildlife.

Fall is the season of migratory passages: birds crossing the valley on their way south, turning the area into a prime spot for birdwatching.

Winter clears the vegetation and improves visibility in the mountains. Eagle owls and peregrine falcons are easier to spot during this season, when their nests are active and their movements are more predictable.